The Steel Guitar Forum

When I got my S-B Professional in '71 I had to order extended rods. Now, geez 40 years later I fit under a standard steel fine. I guess those crazy cowboy boots were the culprit. Or else I've shrunk.

I used cowboy boots from 1968 thru 1979 then I quit until 1996. When I started playing again I still used cowboy boots until the guitar went in the case in 1998, because of my job. I got the guitar out in 2002 and now I cannot use cowboy boots..........????????........go figure. I use penny loafers with a thin sole.

chris ivey wrote:I prefer the boots and i'm much more comfortable with the look and attitude of nice western boots. and attitude helps my playing.

I took a play out of your playbook, Chris. I've always had to wear topsiders, but after reading your post I went out the door last night to the gig in my western boots...play or bust. Worked out good, a monumental night...boots all night with attitude! No more topsiders for me. (The topsiders with black Lee bootcut jeans and a vintage western shirt was a little...er...goofy.)

Welcome back to the boot club Brian.

I like the cowboy boot looking things that just come above the ankle and have a zipper on the side. Sometimes I play with the zipper on my left foot all the way down to ease ankle movement. Here's an action shot which looks like my pant legs are too short.........JH in Va.

Some guys I have heard sound like they are wearing these..
And these

I like the cowboy boot looking things that just come above the ankle and have a zipper on the side. Sometimes I play with the zipper on my left foot all the way down to ease ankle movement.

I just my pair of those boot in a few days ago. They really work well. My ankle is quite free. I am however taking them to the shoe shop today and getting the heal cut down from riding heal to walking. Those tall heals make my knees hurt if I walk in them much.

Doc Martens

For practice it's whatever I am wearing that day, sometimes no shoes at all.
For shows it's whatever the band is wearing that day, sometimes no shoes at all.

Jerry, I used some like that many years ago and the were tight on the ankle. I don't remember it being a problem, but I was also a lot younger then.

Joe, I would like to try a pair of the second one's you posted.

Topic drift - Sorry. Jerry is that an inlay on the front of your BMI, or a decal? Nice.

I prefer wearing "cowboy boots". I've been wearing them for over 30 yrs, when I play out. I like the way my foot pivots easily, because of the heel and the toes only press the pedals I'm going after. It just works for me, so, I'm not changing it. When I'm practising or teaching, I usually wear a pair of mocassins, but, the vertical lever can be a challenge. I've tried to play out in sneakers, but, they're just too clumsy for me. I don't own a pair of dress shoes, so, that's a moot point. On a funny note- I had to do a session after work, one time, and I forgot to pack my boots. I had to wear my "work boots"! It was quite an adventure for me. I got the session done, but, I played very simple stuff and pulled it off. I guess it's whatever you get used to playing in. My Nocona's and Tony Lama's work just fine for me.

Nacona cowboy boots, soft leather uppers allows plenty of movement. Besides, I can play bad whether I can feel the pedals or not. Larry

For practicing, I wear Crocs. They work well, however,when I play publicly, I use "Roper" style cowboy boots.

Back in my playing days (up to 1984) I wore cowboy boots.
When I started playing again 4 years ago, I'd use anything.
Since my accident, the only shoes that I can play with are,
ThomMcAm loffers, and I have to thank Ron Elliott for that.
Carl "Lucky" Kilmer

I play in boots made of Bald Eagle hide. Very soft and comfortable.

If you really want to be comfortable when playing, this is the outfit to wear:

NONE

Vans.... They are super steel shoes.